As the holiday season brings the year 2024 to a close, I find myself grateful for the many lessons learned. This year has been one of growth, learning, and connection. I’m especially thankful for the success of my weekly streaming show, Asking for a Sister Friend. Over the course of the year, I interviewed more than 35 inspiring guests. These remarkable professionals didn’t just share their expertise—they shared the personal journeys that led them to their mission of helping others. Their stories touched countless lives, and more people discovered the incredible impact these individuals are making in their communities and beyond.

Another milestone I’m proud to celebrate is the relaunch of Pearls Perfected Institute (PPI). I am still amazed at how creating this platform has provided an opportunity for individuals to monetize their content and share their expertise through courses, coaching programs, eBooks, and more. Seeing others step into their calling and create sources of learning and empowerment has been nothing short of amazing.

When I first relaunched Pearls Perfected Institute, I focused on developing one's expertise beyond the license, education, and credentials. However, the focus was still on credentials. I initially looked for people who had impressive qualifications, but it wasn’t the credentials we ultimately focused on. My guests and clients wanted to share their journeys and how those journeys could make a difference in others’ lives. Potential clients were drawn to having a space to create real, authentic content—not necessarily overly structured educational material. This realization was an eye-opener for me and reshaped how I approached empowering others.

Chasing Credentials, Missing the Connection

For many years, I believed that success was tied to the number of degrees and credentials I could accumulate. One look at my credential wall and you will notice I went back to school multiple times, spending more and more money to add letters to my name. I thought that once I earned the title of "Dr." alongside my degrees in psychology, clients would flock to me, confident in my ability to help them.

What I didn’t realize at the time was that it wasn’t my credentials that drew people to me—it was my story. Yes, the additional skills I gained through education were helpful, but my impact didn’t come from the certificates hanging on my wall. It came from the experiences I lived, the challenges I overcame, and the authentic connection I offered to those who sought my guidance.